Katten Private Wealth Partner Chris Hopkins was recently featured in a Citywealth Leaders List Q&A. The discussion covered Chris’ role in Katten’s Private Wealth practice, the personal and technical planning issues facing clients, recent matters involving second marriages and significant asset ownership, and the qualities that define effective leadership.
Chris advises individuals, families, fiduciaries and family offices on estate planning, tax planning, trust and estate administration, and related succession matters. He noted that his practice is focused on helping clients preserve wealth, transfer assets efficiently and navigate the personal, tax and legal issues that often arise at important inflection points for families and closely held businesses.
Regarding recent client matters, Chris discussed planning for second marriages, where estate planning often requires balancing support for a surviving spouse with the desire to preserve assets for children from a prior relationship. He also described advising clients on the ownership of aircraft, yachts, real estate and other significant assets, including structuring ownership to maintain privacy where appropriate, limit liability, and coordinate the client’s desired use and control of the assets with the most tax-efficient ownership structure possible.
Chris also addressed the challenges clients are facing, including tax and market uncertainty, changing family structures, increased privacy concerns and the practical complexity of managing wealth across generations. "Many clients know they need to plan, but they do not always know where to start or how to prioritize," he said. "I try to help by making the process approachable: identifying the key risks, explaining available options clearly, and developing planning that is technically sound but also workable for the family in real life."
When asked about leadership, Chris offered his perspective on what makes a strong leader. "Good leaders are clear, steady and generous with their time," he said. "They set expectations, communicate honestly and create space for others to grow."
"Citywealth Leaders List, 60 seconds interview – Chris Hopkins, Katten," Citywealth, July 1, 2026
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